PILOT Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. Whitesides, George [D-CA-27]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Jul 22, 2026
Bottom line
The PILOT Act mandates a study to explore integrating civilian test pilot expertise into military testing operations, potentially broadening the talent pool for critical defense roles.
What it actually does
This bill directs the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to Congress by January 1, 2027. The report must assess the feasibility and advisability of expanding opportunities for graduates of accredited civilian test pilot schools to serve as test pilots and flight test engineers in support of military testing activities, specifically by modifying existing Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA) instructions. It also requires the report to identify a certification process for civilian schools to ensure their graduates meet military standards and curriculum alignment.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that this bill will help address potential shortfalls in specialized military test pilot and flight test engineer capacities by leveraging the highly skilled graduates of civilian programs. They believe it could enhance military readiness and efficiency by tapping into a broader talent pool, while also ensuring that rigorous standards are maintained through a robust certification process.
Opponents contend
Critics might express concerns about maintaining the unique operational and security standards inherent in military testing activities if civilian pathways are expanded without extremely stringent oversight. They could argue that military test pilot training is distinct and cannot be fully replicated or supplemented by civilian programs without potential risks to national security or flight safety.
The bill is very short and clear, allowing for a quick and comprehensive understanding of its intent and provisions.
Section 2(a)
Report on Expanding Pathways for Civilian Test Pilots
This provision mandates that the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the military departments, deliver a report to the House and Senate Armed Services Committees by January 1, 2027. The report must evaluate whether it's practical and beneficial to expand the existing pathways, specifically under Defense Contract Management Agency Instruction 8210-1D, for graduates of U.S. civilian test pilot schools to work as test pilots and flight test engineers for military testing.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that this report is a crucial step to identify and address any gaps in military test pilot and flight test engineer staffing by exploring qualified civilian resources. It ensures a systematic review of current policies and potential improvements.
Critics contend
No specific opposition is typically raised against a directive for a report, as it is an information-gathering measure. However, potential opponents of *expanding* civilian roles might view this as a preliminary step towards diluting military-specific expertise.
Tradeoffs
The provision balances the need to explore new talent pools with the imperative to maintain strict military standards and operational security. The report is designed to assess these tradeoffs before any policy changes are made.
Section 2(b)
Elements of the Report
This section details the specific information that must be included in the Secretary of Defense's report. It requires an assessment of current military and civilian test pilot capacity, an evaluation of the benefits and risks of modifying DCMA Instruction 8210-1D to include all accredited civilian graduates, and the identification of a certification process for civilian schools to ensure their curriculum and graduates meet military education and training requirements.